If you live in Pennsylvania, you are most likely enjoying the much-needed warm weather of summer. Many people across the state enjoy riding motorcycles around this time of year, and who would blame them? Motorcycles are gas-efficient, fast, and lots of fun to ride. Some people only use motorcycles as a cruising vehicle on Sundays, while for others, it is their primary means of transportation. Whatever the case may be for you, if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you are most likely seeking financial compensation. If you are in this situation, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the main causes of motorcycle accidents?
There are several causes of motorcycle accidents in the state of Pennsylvania. In the winter season, rather obviously, black ice and snow are serious safety threats. However, in the summer, motorcyclists have to worry about heavy rain and thunderstorms. Additionally, poor road conditions or design, such as deep potholes often contribute to motorcycle accidents as well. However, the main cause of motorcycle accidents is driver negligence.
How do I know if I am eligible to sue for compensation?
The general standard in personal injury claims is that if you were injured due to another party’s negligence, you will most likely be entitled to compensation. However, in Pennsylvania, it’s a little bit different. Thanks to No-Fault Laws, there are two options for an insured motorist with regard to the automobile insurance that they purchase concerning their right to sue. An insured motorist may elect “full tort” or “limited tort” under the liability coverage they purchase.
- If you elected “full tort,” you may sue and recover for non-economic damages, such as pain, humiliation, anxiety, or loss of life’s pleasures, without showing that the injuries are “serious,” as defined in the act.
- However, if you elected the “limited tort coverage” in return for a lower premium, you may not recover compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, anxiety, and loss of life’s pleasures, unless you have sustained a “serious” injury, as defined in the act.
How do I prove another party’s negligence?
In order to prove another party was negligent at the time of your accident, there are a few things you may do. Though hiring an experienced attorney may be the most important, you may also wish to help prove your claim by obtaining video footage of the incident, witness testimony, or medical documentation regarding the extent of your injuries. You may provide all these different forms of evidence when attempting to prove your claim.
Contact our Pennsylvania firm
Attorney Newman has represented clients in Pennsylvania for over 45 years. If you need an experienced attorney to help guide you through the personal injury claims process or with any criminal defense matters, Attorney Newman is ready to help. Contact The Law Office of Neal E. Newman today to schedule a consultation.